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Governments launch Market Access Initiative to help open markets for Ontario farm products

The Ontario government will begin accepting applications for the Market Access Initiative, a new cost-share funding initiative open to all Ontario food and agri-product exporters to assist them in accessing new markets.

Effective today, the Market Access Initiative will assist with diversification projects and is supported through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

The announcement comes at a time when Canadian producers are facing market access concerns and trade disputes. Canada’s pork, beef, canola, soybean and lentil producers are some of the most affected by actions taken by other countries such as banning imports, increasing tariffs, or stalling trade.

“The global marketplace is in turmoil right now, and farmers are being negatively impacted through no fault of their own. Today’s announcement of a fund for new market development for Ontario grains, pork and beef is welcome,” said Markus Haerle, chair of Grain Farmers of Ontario in a statement.

Through the Market Access Initiative, sector organizations and businesses can apply for cost-share support for eligible activities that diversify markets for Ontario food products. Eligible projects will include activities such as developing plans to access new international or domestic markets and engaging in new marketing activities to achieve this outcome.

The Market Access Initiative application intake will review applications as received and remain open until funding budgeted for the initiative is no longer available.

The Market Access Initiative will be delivered by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. Information and access to program materials and application forms are available online or by calling 1-877-424-1300.

The province also offers additional market development programming under the Place to Grow: Agri-Food Innovation Initiative which may be more appropriate for some potential applicants. The first intake for the Place to Grow: Agri-Food Innovation Initiative is available from August 15 to September 27, 2019.